That is only true if you see the list of things a person can learn how to do as a closed set. For instance, I really disliked maths in school. I've avoided every software job posting that involved any maths (3D, statistics, etc). However, if I was given a job offer to work on a math-related product I deeply connected with, and that I felt I wanted to contribute, I'd probably be more interested in learning the math stuff I dumped from my brain years ago. I'm convinced this applies to most people in this industry.

I think the issue we have nowadays is that most software companies are creating mediocre to shitty software that solves no real problem, but selling themselves as the next Google or Apple. Most engineers can see through the bullshit and thus don't feel connected to the product. Then it just becomes a contest for who can realistically write the code for the shitty product for the least pay.